England’s Royal Navy preserved its empire and gave it military dominance of the world for more than 350 years. In the 20th century that dominance would pass from Britain to America and eventually, from sea to space. The English language owes its success as the world language to this fundamental military reality -- whoever controls the great commons of the sea and space dominates the world. This DVD collection explores the relationship between military power, technology, commercial realities, and the will of a nation and a people to excel. Historian Mark Milner and Yale University professor Paul Kennedy are our guides in this remarkable five-hour documentary series.

Episode #1: Britain Arises
Episode #2: The 18th Century
Episode #3: Pax Britannica – The British Peace
Episode #4: Changing the Guard
Episode #5: Space, the Great Commons